The Clown Doctors program at John Hunter Children's Hospital uses humour therapy to improve the quality of life for children and their families.
With a $18,650 donation from the Wests Group through the ClubGRANTs initiative, the Clown Doctors visit the hospital one day a week, working with medical staff to address the physiological and psychological needs of young patients.
Clown Doctors help distract frightened children, empower long-term patients, and provide respite for anxious parents.
They also support hospital staff, helping to create a more positive environment. The program, delivered by The Humour Foundation, benefits children cognitively, physiologically, socially, emotionally, and psychologically, transcending cultural backgrounds through laughter, music, play, and drawing.
November Charity of the Month | The Humour Foundation
“We want to be able to support a service that puts a smile on a dial,” Wests Group Director, Katie Brassil.
“Providing a fun opportunity for young people – who wouldn’t want to be a part of providing that service for our community.”
Around 4,200 children from the City of Newcastle are admitted to John Hunter Children's Hospital annually.
The Clown Doctors' playful antics create a sense of community, reduce anxiety, and enhance the hospital experience for children and their families.
For more information about The Humour Foundation and to support their mission, please click here.
